Challenge
*Amira was a 25-year-old delivery driver with one year of service when she sustained a low back injury while loading packages into her delivery van. Her role was physically demanding, requiring frequent lifting, carrying, and movement of heavy packages. Even temporary physical restrictions made onsite accommodation difficult. Once her claim was approved, the case was referred to the return-to-work team and assigned to *Stephen, a return-to-work specialist.
Upon review, Stephen identified medical restrictions limiting Amira to lifting and carrying no more than ten pounds. Her employer was unable to accommodate these restrictions within her delivery driver role. At a subsequent medical visit, her restrictions became more severe, limiting lifting and carrying to just five pounds. This eliminated any remaining opportunity for limited duty work onsite, placing Amira at risk for an extended absence and delayed recovery.
Solution
To maintain Amira’s connection with the workforce, Stephen recommended the Careworks transitional work placement program. The employer was educated on how the program offers temporary, medically appropriate work through nonprofit organizations when onsite accommodation is not available and her employer agreed to participate.
*Selena, a transitional work placement coordinator, reviewed the medical restrictions and searched for a suitable nonprofit placement. While an initial opportunity was identified, Amira declined due to travel distance. Selena and the transitional work placement team then explored creative alternatives, resulting in a remote transitional role with a foundation that supports those with pediatric cancer and other childhood diseases. This solution allowed Amira to remain engaged, productive, and compliant with her restrictions while continuing her recovery.
Result
Selena supported Amira’s successful onboarding, including signing the job offer and sharing return-to-work documentation with the employer and claims adjuster. Throughout the placement, Stephen collaborated closely with the medical provider to support advancement of restrictions. Once Amira was released to lift up to twelve pounds, the updated restrictions were provided to the employer, who was able to accommodate her onsite. Amira returned to light duty work and continued progressing until she was fully released to return to work without restrictions.
Through education, flexibility, and problem-solving, Stephen and Selena helped overcome accommodation barriers, keeping Amira connected to meaningful work and supporting a successful return to her employer.
*Names changed for privacy purposes